Best Things to Do in Cologne at Night

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LOOKING FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN COLOGNE AT NIGHT?

You are in the right place! As a resident of Cologne, I am constantly amazed by the vibrant nightlife this city has to offer. From clubs to cozy bars, there is something for everyone when the sun goes down in Cologne. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, exploring the city at night is an experience not to be missed.

In this post, I will share with you the best things to do in Cologne at night, from dancing the night away to enjoying a quiet drink with friends. So, if you’re looking to make the most out of your nights in Cologne, keep reading!

If you don’t want to explore Cologne’s nightlife alone…..

…why not take a tour through Cologne’s greatest bars and clubs, and get to know people from different countries? With the Pub Crawl Cologne, you’ll never drink alone!

Best Things to Do in Cologne at Night

1. Cologne Cathedral

Visiting Cologne Cathedral during the day is a must-do for any tourist, but have you ever considered seeing it at night? Even though the church closes its doors at 7:30 pm, it is still worth the visit. That’s because the Cathedral is beautifully illuminated at night, casting an enchanting glow across the surrounding area.

Whether you’re a photographer or just someone who appreciates stunning architecture, seeing Cologne Cathedral lit up at night is a truly magical experience. So, next time you’re in Cologne, don’t miss out on the opportunity to see this iconic landmark in a whole new light.

2. Rhein Boulevard

If you’re looking for a spectacular view of Cologne at night, then the Rhein Boulevard is the place to go. From this vantage point, you can marvel at the beauty of the city as it glows under the lights.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic spot to take your partner, or simply want to soak up the city’s energy, the Rhein Boulevard offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

So, if you find yourself in Cologne, make sure to take a stroll along the Rhein Boulevard at night and witness the city in all its illuminated glory.

3. Old Town

Cologne’s Old Town is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city, and it becomes even more enchanting at night. With a variety of charming bars, pubs, and restaurants, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in this historic area after dark.

The Old Town is home to several breweries, where you can enjoy a delicious Kölsch beer and soak up the local atmosphere. And if you are a fan of traditional German cisine, the Haxenhaus may be a suiting destination for you.

The restaurant is known for its specialty dish, the haxen, which is a roasted pork knuckle served with sauerkraut, potatoes, and gravy. The haxen is prepared to perfection, with crispy skin and tender, juicy meat that’s full of flavor. In addition to the haxen, Haxenhaus also offers a range of other traditional German dishes, such as bratwurst.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Cologne Old Town at night is a charming place that’s not to be missed.

4. Brüsseler Platz Square

Cologne’s Brüsseler Platz square is a popular destination for young people, especially during the summer months. The square is buzzing with activity, as people gather to enjoy drinks, socialize, and hang out with friends.

But Brüsseler Platz is not just a place for nightlife – it also offers some stunning sights to see. The Church of St. Michael is located nearby and is illuminated at night, casting a magical glow across the area. The square is also surrounded by a number of bars and restaurants, offering a variety of food and drinks for any taste.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening out with friends or a lively night on the town, Brüsseler Platz has something to offer. So, next time you’re in Cologne, make sure to stop by this vibrant square and soak up the energy of the city.

5. Aachener Straße Street

Aachenerstraße Street is a popular destination for those looking for a night out in the city. With a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs, there’s no shortage of options for those looking to have a good time.

Some of the standout bars and clubs in the area include the following venues:

Six Pack Bar

The Six Pack Bar is a popular late-night destination that attracts a diverse crowd. It’s the place to be for those looking to stay out until morning. However, getting in can be a challenge as the doormen often limit entry due to overcrowding.

The bar offers a wide variety of bottled beers, and the rotating DJs keep the atmosphere lively with electronic music. The Six Pack Bar is known for its eclectic mix of patrons and always offers a vibrant and diverse scene.

Coco Schmitz

Coco Schmitz, located in the basement of Salon Schmitz, is an integral part of Cologne’s nightlife scene due to its stylish atmosphere and frequent parties. The well-stocked bar and lively speakers ensure a fun time at various events and concerts.

Reineke Fuchs

Reineke Fuchs opened in 2012. It quickly became a top destination for partygoers, thanks to its cozy interior that mixes the comfort of a local bar with the atmosphere of a nightclub.

The venue’s success can be attributed to its well-balanced bookings of HipHop and electronic music acts, featuring both international renowned DJs as well as talented resident DJs.

Expect to hear the finest mix of melodic house, and find a bustling dance floor, as well as comfortable sofa corners for those much-needed rests in between.

6. Südstadt

The district of Südstadt is a lively neighborhood that offers a unique experience for anyone looking for a fun night out. With a plethora of bars and restaurants to choose from, you will find an exciting and diverse nightlife scene that caters to all tastes and preferences.

From cozy pubs to trendy cocktail bars, there’s something for everyone in Südstadt. So if you’re in Cologne and want to experience a memorable night out, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the many bars and restaurants in the district of Südstadt.

7. Ehrenfeld

Ehrenfeld is known as one of the most vibrant and alternative districts in Cologne. It’s nightlife scene is no exception. The district is home to a diverse range of bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to all tastes.

Club Bahnhof Ehrenfeld

Club Bahnhof Ehrenfeld (CBE) is a former train station turned into a nightclub. With a cozy beer garden and hundreds of events of various genres throughout the year, the club sets cultural and programmatic accents through its content and quality.

Established in 2010, CBE has quickly become a renowned music venue in Cologne. Its broad program includes parties, concerts, poetry slams, cultural-entertainment shows, winter and summer markets, and record fairs.

The club’s focus is on alternative black music genres such as jazz, soul, funk, hip hop, house, salsa, Latin-jazz, reggae, and blues. However, CBE’s program also includes music from other genres, making it a diverse and innovative club.

Kantine

Kantine has been a cornerstone of Cologne’s club and party scene for over 20 years. With its concerts and parties, Kantine appeals to audiences of all ages.

National and international musicians and bands, ranging from punk to hard rock, pop, and blues, have graced the Kantine stage. Big names like Alanis Morissette and Marilyn Manson have performed in Kantine, making it a must-visit venue for music lovers. Kantine’s open-air area is also popular among visitors, providing a unique and unforgettable experience.

Live Music Hall

The Live Music Hall offers a diverse range of parties, attracting a broad audience with different musical tastes.

The “Let’s Dance” party plays current charts and party classics, while “Pop-Live” parties cover everything from the 70s to today’s hits. The “80s Party” features pop-wave and Neue Deutsche Welle, while the “Rockgarden” parties offer alternative and rock music.

In addition to the “Metal Party” at Rockgarden, the “Cowboys from Hell Night” is held on the last Saturday of every month. It features a focus on death and thrash metal, grindcore, and lesser-known bands.

Live Music Hall caters to a wide range of music lovers, providing a fun and inclusive atmosphere for everyone.

Die Halle Tor 2

DIE HALLE Tor 2 is a renowned club that has been known for several years as one of the most popular venues in the city, offering unforgettable party experiences.

The club is distinguished by its unique industrial flair, providing a special atmosphere for guests. With its exceptional party concepts and carefully selected guests, DIE HALLE Tor 2 promises an exceptional night out for all partygoers.

Whether it’s a night out with friends or a special event, DIE HALLE Tor 2 is the perfect destination for a memorable party experience.

8. Zülpicher Straße

Zülpicher Straße in Cologne is a bustling street at night that is particularly popular among students.

The street is well-known for its numerous bars, providing visitors with plenty of options for a night out. Whether you’re looking for a cozy pub or a lively bar with music and dancing, there is something for everyone on Zülpicher Straße.

Some of the standout bars and clubs in the area include the following venues:

Oma Kleinmann

Oma Kleinmann is a popular restaurant and is the perfect stop to start a night out on Zülpicher Straße. The restaurant is known for its cozy and traditional atmosphere, offering a comfortable place to enjoy a delicious meal before hitting the bars and clubs in the area.

Oma Kleinmann specializes in authentic German cuisine, serving up hearty dishes such as schnitzel. The restaurant’s prime location makes it an ideal starting point for a night out on Zülpicher Straße.

With its delicious food, and convenient location, Oma Kleinmann is a top choice for those looking to kick off their night out on Zülpicher Straße.

MTC Cologne

The MTC is a premier venue that has been bringing top-notch national and international bands to the area. With its outstanding DJ team, MTC is dedicated to reviving the rock music scene and creating a thrilling atmosphere for music lovers.

Whether you’re a die-hard rock fan or simply looking for a great night out, MTC offers a unique and electrifying environment that will leave you wanting more.

Soul Bar

Soul Bar is a retro haven for fans of the 1970s aesthetic and great cocktails.

The bar’s interior design takes visitors on a trip back in time, with vintage decor and furniture that exude a nostalgic vibe. Soul Bar’s extensive selection of cocktails is another highlight, with expertly crafted drinks that perfectly complement the bar’s retro atmosphere.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail or something more unique, Soul Bar has something to satisfy every taste. This bar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a night out in a trendy setting that captures the essence of the 1970s.

Die Flotte

Die Flotte is a popular spot where people come during the week to flirt, play billiards or kicker, and enjoy a cold Gaffel-Kölsch.

On the weekends, the atmosphere transforms into a lively party scene starting around 9 pm. Many bachelor and bachelorette parties, as well as other fun-loving people, gather here to dance the night away to a variety of music ranging from current chart-toppers to oldies, 80s hits, Schlager, and even some traditional Carnival music.

With its diverse selection of music and fun-loving atmosphere, Die Flotte is the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy a night out.

Venuskeller

Venuskeller is perfect for those looking for a place to hang out after most other bars have closed their doors for the night.

With a bar and dancefloor open daily from midnight, Venuskeller is a great spot to drown your sorrows with a cold beer or simply to have a good time.

As a true cult club in Cologne, Venuskeller promises a fun and lively atmosphere with a variety of drinks and music to keep you entertained throughout the night.

9. Friesenstraße

Friesenstraße is a bustling street in Cologne that really comes to life at night. With its numerous bars, clubs and restaurants, it offers visitors an array of entertainment options. Whether you’re looking for a quiet pub, a trendy cocktail bar or a lively club, Friesenstraße has something for everyone.

Heising und Adelmann

Heising & Adelmann is a unique blend of restaurant and bar in Cologne. The kitchen team transforms ingredients into exciting creations. On weekends, Heising & Adelmann transforms from a top-notch restaurant into one of the trendiest party locations in the city.

It’s the perfect place to enjoy an unforgettable dining experience and then party the night away.

10. Kölner Ringe

The Kölner Ringe area is a bustling hub of activity, especially on the weekends.

The stretch between Zülpicher Platz and Hansaring transforms into a vibrant partymile with numerous nightclubs. From mainstream clubs to student-oriented venues, there is something for everyone on Kölner Ringe.

The area has a lively atmosphere that is perfect for those looking to have a good time and experience the city’s nightlife. Whether you’re into electronic music, hip hop, or pop, you’ll find a club that suits your taste on Kölner Ringe.

Roonburg

Roonburg is a popular venue among students, known for its vibrant atmosphere and exciting events. Located at Zülpicher Platz, Roonburg hosts a range of parties and concerts throughout the year.

With its lively dance floors and diverse music selection, Roonburg is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience Cologne’s nightlife.

DASDING

DASDING is a popular venue, situated directly across the street from the well-known student favorite Roonburg. With a lively atmosphere and top-notch music selection, DASDING has become a go-to spot for students.

The venue features a spacious dance floor and a diverse range of events, including themed parties and live performances by DJs.

Whether you’re looking to dance the night away with friends or meet new people, DASDING is a must-visit destination for any student.

Klapsmühle

Klapsmühle is the perfect place to forget about your daily routine and have a great time in a lively atmosphere.

Since 1993, this venue has been providing an exciting party vibe and surprises to its guests.

On the ground floor, DJs play a mix of party music, carnival hits, Schlager, and Disco-Fox. Meanwhile, in the basement, the current TOP 100 charts and various bestsellers are played in the discotheque.

Klapsmühle hosts various themed parties, including Aprés Ski, Mallorca, and single parties. The venue also welcomes live acts periodically. The extensive drink menu caters to all tastes, ensuring a perfect night out for everyone.

Einundfünfzig

Einundfünfzig (51) is a well-established event venue in Cologne. From Thursday to Saturday, the venue hosts After 7 events, as well as Club Nights on Fridays and Saturdays.

On Sundays through Wednesdays, the space is available for private events, making it a versatile venue for all types of occasions.

Vanity

Vanity Club is a popular destination for discerning night owls from across the country. With a high-caliber mix of DJs and live acts, the club is a guarantee for wild but stylish nights. Located in the heart of Cologne’s nightlife, Vanity distinguishes itself as one of the region’s trendiest venues by its stylish crowd.

Regular visits by international acts prove the Vanity Club to be the most beautiful club in town.

A visit to Vanity Club Cologne can be ideally combined with dinner and drinks at Spencer & Hill. The evening starts with Italian hospitality and a great atmosphere, delicious food, and a premium wine in our restaurant. Afterwards, it’s off to the club, whose entrance is directly adjacent to Spencer & Hill and just a few steps away. The modern-authentic combination of dinner and dance guarantees a successful evening and wild night out.

Nachtflug

Nachtflug is a chic club, which is considered one of the top addresses in Cologne’s nightlife scene. It has been successful for years with its mix of stylish ambiance, lively party-goers, and the occasional celebrity sighting. Players from the FC soccer team are just as likely to be seen here as actors from daily soap operas.

The round hall is brightly lit, and the lighting matches what one would expect from a modern club. VIP lodges line up around the central dance floor and the surrounding walkway, with guests able to get drinks from several sides.

Drink prices are rather high, especially on weekends, but still acceptable. On the other hand, the excellent DJs provide professional house music with a good sense of upcoming hits.

Diamonds

Diamonds Club is an upscale discotheque that sets high expectations for its guests. In order to party there in style, one must have a substantial budget and preferably reserve a table beforehand.

The club has a sleek and elegant decor with colorful light shows that create a festive atmosphere reminiscent of a Miami nightclub. Its modern architectural style, with multiple levels and high ceilings, adds to the exclusive ambiance.

The club features two levels, including a spacious gallery that offers a perfect view of the dance floor, as well as designer seating areas. The music program mainly consists of modern house and R’n’B music, with regular performances by popular national and international DJs.

Flamingo Royal

Flamingo Royal might be the right club for partygoers over 25. While entry is free, guests must first gain approval from the club’s bouncers, and jeans are definitely not appropriate attire.

Things to Do in Cologne at Night – Final Thoughts

Cologne, with its vibrant nightlife scene, offers a variety of activities to do at night. From bars and pubs to nightclubs and music venues, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or enjoy a few drinks with friends, Cologne has got you covered. Some of the popular areas for nightlife in Cologne include the Belgian Quarter, Ehrenfeld, and the Old Town.

So, if you’re planning a night out in Cologne, there are plenty of options to choose from, and you’re sure to have a great time!

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